TV Specials
Gary Lineker Odds Slashed for I’m a Celebrity Appearance
I’ve been following the rumours around the upcoming season of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and one name that keeps cropping up is Gary Lineker. What really grabbed my attention is that his odds of appearing in the jungle have been slashed, which makes me think there could be more to the story than just idle speculation.
At first, Gary didn’t seem like the obvious choice. His profile has always been tied more to sports broadcasting, Match of the Day, and his strong presence on social media. For that reason, his odds were initially much longer. But recently, bookmakers have shortened those odds dramatically, and when that happens, it usually suggests that something is brewing behind the scenes.
I can see why people are getting excited. Gary is a household name, someone the British public has watched and listened to for years. Putting him in the jungle would instantly boost ratings, and ITV has a track record of pulling in big stars when they want to make a splash. For me, the move feels like it would be a win-win for both sides.
What’s especially interesting is how his connection with ITV might play a role. Since the show airs on the channel, and with Gary already having ties to their network, the transition doesn’t seem far-fetched. Betting markets often respond to details like this, and it’s one of the reasons I think his odds have been cut so sharply.
I imagine him in the jungle and it feels like a fascinating fit. His sharp wit, humour, and calm presence would stand out among the usual mix of reality TV personalities, actors, and singers. I also think the audience would enjoy seeing him in a completely different light — outside of football and punditry.
Of course, odds slashing doesn’t mean confirmation. I’ve seen plenty of names tipped as favourites in past years, only for them not to appear when the final cast is revealed. It’s part of the fun, but also a reminder to take betting movements with a pinch of salt. Still, the fact that Gary has suddenly become such a hot pick makes me think the possibility is real.
For me personally, this would be one of the most exciting signings the show could make. He brings credibility, humour, and a huge fanbase that cuts across different generations. If ITV is looking for someone who will spark headlines and draw in viewers, Gary ticks all those boxes.
So while nothing is official yet, I’m keeping a close eye on how the market shifts in the coming weeks. If his odds shorten even further, it could be the strongest sign yet that we’ll see Gary Lineker trading football commentary for Bushtucker Trials in the jungle. And if that happens, I’ll be glued to the screen.
Strictly Come Dancing looks set to be a two horse race in 2025
After a dramatic week in the ballroom, the odds have shifted once again and bookmakers have now ‘named’ their clear favourite. With BBC’s iconic dancing competition in its 23rd series, and the final run with Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, the show is heading into a pivotal semi-final weekend.
George Clarke has reasserted himself at the top of the Strictly Come Dancing betting, with William Hill trimming the internet star into the 8/11 favourite to lift the Glitterball Trophy. His resurgence comes after a brief challenge from former England footballer Karen Carney, who has now drifted to 5/4.
Dave James of What Are The Odds said Clarke’s move back into odds-on territory “signals a major shift in momentum” ahead of the semi-finals.
“George Clarke has firmly reasserted himself at the top of the Strictly market, shortening to 8/11 from 6/5, and he may now be the one to beat,” he explained.
“Karen Carney had enjoyed a remarkable surge, but drifting to 5/4 from 5/6 suggests the tide has turned again. Balvinder Sopal and Amber Davies remain lively contenders, yet at 12/1 and 28/1 the market still views them as outsiders. With the competition heating up, punters are clearly anticipating a tight two-horse race as we head into the final stages.”
Behind the front runners, there is a notable gap in the market. Balvinder Sopal is priced at 12/1, while Amber Davies who has achieved several perfect scores this series — sits further back at 28/1.
With one of the four remaining celebrities set to lift the Glitterball Trophy later this month, Saturday night’s semi-final on BBC One promises to be crucial.
Will Clarke extend his lead, or can Carney mount one final challenge?
Strictly Come Dancing will be waltzing into a brand new era as long time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have confirmed they’ll be stepping down at the end of the current series.
Tess Daly has fronted the show since its debut 21 years ago, while Claudia joined as co host in 2014, forming one of the most iconic presenting partnerships in British television. Their warmth, humour and on-screen chemistry have been key to the show’s enduring success.
With their exit confirmed, bookmakers have wasted no time releasing the Next Strictly Presenter odds on who could take over one of TV’s most glamorous hosting gigs.
Whataretheodds.co.uk have compiled the latest odds from across the bookmakers to bring the latest contenders.
Latest Odds to Replace Tess and Claudia
| Candidate | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Janette Manrara | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Fleur East | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Zoe Ball | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Roman Kemp | 4/1 | 20.0% |
| Rylan Clark | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Stacey Dooley & Kevin Clifton | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Alesha Dixon | 7/1 | 12.5% |
| Oti Mabuse | 8/1 | 11.1% |
| Alison Hammond | 9/1 | 10.0% |
| Hannah Waddingham | 10/1 | 9.1% |
| Holly Willoughby | 12/1 | 7.7% |
Whataretheodds.co.uk Celebrity Expert Dave James commented:
“I’m sure the BBC will be looking for a smooth transition and ‘Auntie’ always tends to look close to home when replacing presenters and a safe option will be paramount. Janette Manrara is the clear fan favourite and of course an expert on all things Strictly. “
“The It Takes Two presenter and former Strictly professional knows the show inside out and would bring warmth and familiarity to the role. If Tess and Claudia are the golden era of Strictly, Janette could easily be the start of the next. She’s rightly at the top of the market and I think she is the clear favourite.”
He added: “Fleur East is also another who has really impressed since joining It Takes Two and with Janette they have formed the perfect partnership. They look the perfect pairing at the moment. She’s confident and chrismatic, and really connects with the Strictly audience. She’d be a welcome addition to the flagship show and the BBC will surely be looking for a safe option.”
“At 3/1, Zoe Ball remains firmly in the running as well. She has the perfect mix of professionalism, having hosted It Takes Two for years, she’s got the experience to hit the ground running. ”
With the BBC expected to confirm their replacements early next year, all eyes will be on who can bring their own shine to the Strictly ballroom.
With I’m A Celebrity 2026 starting this week, here are the latest odds movement and Celebrity elimination odds on the potential winner over the weekend.
| Contestant | Odds | Estimated Chance of Winning |
|---|---|---|
| Martin Kemp | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Lisa Riley | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Kelly Brook | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Jack Osbourne | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Tom Read Wilson | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Alex Scott | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Angry Ginge | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Eddie Kadi | 8/1 | 11.1% |
| Vogue Williams | 9/1 | 10.0% |
| Aitch | 10/1 | 9.1% |
| Shona McGarty | 11/1 | 8.3% |
| Ruby Wax | 12/1 | 7.7% |
What Are The Odds spokesman David James gives his opinions on the favourites.
Martin Kemp 2/1
“The 2026 series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded line-ups in years with household names from music, sport, comedy and soapland heading to the Australian jungle. Leading the betting this year is Spandau Ballet legend Martin Kemp, who’s been installed as the early 2/1 favourite to be crowned King of the Jungle. The 64-year-old ’80s icon is expected to win over viewers with his charm, charisma and inevitable campfire singalongs. Martin’s a true household name from topping the charts with Spandau Ballet in the ’80s to his unforgettable stint in EastEnders in the 2000s. He’s a fantastic signing for this year’s show, and there’s a real buzz about seeing him take on the jungle.”
Lisa Riley 3/1
“Hot on his heels is Emmerdale favourite Lisa Riley (3/1), who’s long been linked with the show. The much loved actress, known for her role as Mandy Dingle,is finally swapping the Dales for the jungle, and fans are already backing her in their droves.
Lisa’s finally stopped saying no to the jungle after years of offers and fans can’t wait to see her in action. She’s admitted she might be ‘too much of a coper’ for good telly, but knowing Lisa, she’ll bring her trademark confidence, big personality, and even a few dance routines around the campfire. She’s more than ready to take on the cockroaches!”
Kelly Brook 5/1
“Former Love Island host and model Kelly Brook (5/1) is another big name heading Down Under, reportedly signing a lucrative ITV deal after years of turning down the offer. ITV bosses have been keen to sign Kelly for years and many think she could be their sexiest contestant ever. She came across really well with audiences on Celebrity Race Across the World and is glamorous, witty, and a familiar face to viewers thanks to her time on Loose Women and other ITV shows. Kelly’s the full package and guaranteed to make perfect TV viewing.”
Jack Osbourne 5/1
“The Osbournes star Jack Osbourne (5/1) will bring rock ’n’ roll to the outback, making his jungle debut following the death of his father, music legend Ozzy Osbourne, earlier this year.Jack’s had a tough few months following the loss of his dad, but I’m A Celeb bosses are thrilled to have him on board. He’s been a star in his own right ever since The Osbournes burst onto screens over two decades ago, and viewers will be eager to see this next chapter in his story”
Joining her on those odds is Celebs Go Dating star Tom Read Wilson (5/1), whose warm wit could make him a camp favourite.
Elsewhere, Football Focus presenter Alex Scott (6/1) and social media sensation Angry Ginge (6/1) are both tipped to go far. Scott brings competitive spirit and confidence, while Angry Ginge’s passionate personality could see him win over the nation just as he has millions online.
Comedy fans will be cheering on Eddie Kadi (8/1), whose quick humour should keep spirits high. Vogue Williams (9/1) adds glamour to the line-up, while BRIT Award-winning rapper Aitch (10/1) could surprise a few people as the first rapper in camp since Tinchy Stryder.
Rounding off the confirmed stars are EastEnders actress Shona McGarty (11/1) and the inimitable Ruby Wax (12/1), whose wit and sharp questions promise to keep things lively around the campfire.”
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